Political Tensions Escalate as Mehraj Malik Faces Physical Attack
Srinagar, 09 April 2025: A Legislative Session in Turmoil
The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly descended into chaos on Wednesday as Mehraj Malik, the lone Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA, was allegedly assaulted by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislators over remarks deemed anti-Hindu. The incident, which unfolded during the ongoing budget session, has sparked outrage and calls for disciplinary action.
What Happened?
The confrontation began when BJP MLAs accused Malik of making derogatory remarks about Hindus during media interactions. Malik allegedly stated that Hindus wear a tilak but engage in sinful acts, a comment that BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa described as “insulting” and “unacceptable.” PDP legislators also clashed with Malik over his remarks about their party founder, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, whom Malik reportedly called a “traitor” for forming an alliance with the BJP in 2015.
The situation escalated when PDP and BJP legislators physically confronted Malik outside the Assembly hall. Videos circulating on social media show BJP MLAs attempting to slap Malik, while PDP workers accused him of using derogatory language against Sayeed. Security personnel intervened to prevent further violence, escorting Malik into the House lobby.
Inside the Assembly
The chaos spilled into the Assembly chamber, where glass tables were reportedly broken during the scuffle. Malik, escorted by marshals, continued to challenge his attackers, accusing them of orchestrating a “war” against him. BJP legislators demanded strict action against Malik, calling him a “habitual offender” and urging the Speaker to suspend him under the Public Safety Act (PSA).
Malik, however, remained defiant, stating, “Whatever I said, I will not retreat from it. He [Sayeed] is a traitor for me.” He also accused the police of acting like PDP workers and failing to take action against those who assaulted him.
Political Fallout
The incident has further polarized the Assembly, with opposition parties accusing the BJP and PDP of stifling dissent. Salman Khursheed, leader of the Awami Ittehad Party, criticized the National Conference-led government for failing to maintain order in the House. “This is not just about Malik; it’s about the erosion of democratic principles in Jammu and Kashmir,” Khursheed remarked.
The Assembly has been marred by protests over the past three days, with legislators demanding a discussion on the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Act. The Speaker, Abdul Rahim Rather, has repeatedly declined to include the matter on the agenda, citing an ongoing legal challenge.
Public Reaction
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many questioning the Assembly’s ability to address critical issues. Social media platforms have been flooded with calls for accountability, with hashtags like #JusticeForMalik and #AssemblyChaos trending among users.
Looking Ahead
As tensions continue to rise, the Assembly faces mounting pressure to restore order and address the grievances of its members. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape, where ideological divides often overshadow legislative priorities.
